Results of patch testing in patients diagnosed with oral lichen planus.

BACKGROUND

Oral lichenoid lesions (OLLs) resemble oral lichen planus (OLP) but develop secondary to various underlying causes. The role of contact allergy in precipitating and/or perpetuating OLL is well documented but remains controversial.

OBJECTIVE

To help elucidate the association of contact allergy and OLL, we reviewed patch-test readings in patients diagnosed with OLP-like lesions.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients diagnosed with OLP-like lesions who had patch tests performed between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2007.

RESULTS

Patch tests were performed on 24 patients with a histopathologic and/or clinical diagnosis of OLP. Of these, 16 (67%) had positive patch-test readings. At least eight (50%) of these patients had clinically relevant reactions. Ten of the 16 patients (63%) had reactions to metals. In most of these patients, troublesome areas tended to localize adjacent to metallic dental restorations. Of the nine patients (56%) who had reactions to fragrances, flavorings, gallates, and/or diallyl disulfide, the majority improved after avoiding these allergens.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support the notion that contact allergy may underlie the pathogenesis of OLL and that allergen avoidance may result in amelioration of disease.